Best Apricot Ginger Cranberry Sauce Recipes

Apricot ginger cranberry sauce is a sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the Thanksgiving table. It is an adaptation of the traditional cranberry sauce, with the added flavors of apricot and ginger. This sauce is incredibly easy to make, and it can be customized to fit the taste preference of any individual.

Apricot Ginger Cranberry Sauce: Ingredients

The ingredients required to make this sauce are quite simple and readily available in most grocery stores. They include:

1. Cranberries

Cranberries are the primary ingredient in this sauce. They are a superfood that is rich in antioxidants and can help to prevent urinary tract infections. Fresh cranberries or frozen cranberries can be used, depending on availability.

2. Granulated Sugar

The sugar is vital in balancing the tartness and acidity of the cranberries. While the amount of sugar used varies, it is usually between 3/4 to 1 cup for one packet of cranberries.

3. Apricot Jam

The apricot jam adds a unique sweetness and mild fruity taste. One to two tablespoons of apricot jam are enough to incorporate the flavor.

4. Ginger

Fresh ginger adds a subtle spiciness to the sauce, which balances out the sweetness. Half to one tablespoon of grated ginger is sufficient for a mild flavor.

5. Orange Zest and Juice

Orange adds a natural sweetness and compliments the cranberry flavor while also increasing the sauce's tanginess. The orange juice and zest provide a refreshing citrus twist to the sauce.

Method

The apricot ginger cranberry sauce can be made ahead of time, and it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Here are the simple steps to make this delicious sauce:

Step 1: Preparing the cranberries

Rinse the cranberries in cold water and remove any stems or bad berries. Once they are cleaned, add the cranberries to a saucepan.

Step 2: Adding the sweeteners

Add the granulated sugar to the saucepan with the cranberries, then also add the apricot jam. Stir to combine the mixture.

Step 3: Adding the ginger and orange zest

Add the grated ginger and orange zest to the saucepan, stirring the mixture for an even spread.

Step 4: Cooking and simmering

Heat the saucepan over medium-high heat until the cranberries begin to burst open. Using a stirring spoon, crush the remaining cranberries while cooking to ensure all the cranberries have opened. Once fully cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Adding the orange juice

Add freshly squeezed orange juice to the saucepan, stirring gently. The orange juice should be added to the sauce once it has thickened and reduced, and the flavors are well-blended.

Step 6: Cooling, storage, and serving

Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool down to room temperature. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container or mason jar, cover, and store in the fridge for up to a week. Before serving, allow the sauce to come to room temperature to smoothen the texture.

Conclusion

Apricot ginger cranberry sauce is an easy and straightforward recipe to follow, but it's a versatile and exotic way to elevate the traditional cranberry sauce. The sauce mixture produces a tangy, fruity, and spicy taste profile that perfectly balances with the typical Thanksgiving dishes. With the bright orange color of the sauce and its wonderful aroma, this sauce is sure to make an impression on your dinner guests.

Apricot ginger cranberry sauce is a delectable way to add flavor to any dish. This sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a week. In this article, we will discuss valuable tips when making apricot ginger cranberry sauce recipes.

Tip 1: Choose Fresh Cranberries

When making apricot ginger cranberry sauce, it is important to choose fresh cranberries rather than canned or frozen cranberries. Fresh cranberries are readily available in grocery stores and farmer's markets from September through December. They are small, vibrant red fruits that are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. Fresh cranberries have a bright, tart flavor that balances well with the sweetness of apricots and the spiciness of ginger.

Tip 2: Use Apricots as a Sweetener

Apricots can be used as a natural sweetener in apricot ginger cranberry sauce recipes. Apricots are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. They have a natural sweetness that complements the tartness of the cranberries. Fresh or dried apricots can be used to make the sauce. Dried apricots should be soaked in water for a few hours before using to soften them.

Tip 3: Add Ginger for Spice

Ginger is a spice that adds a warm, spicy flavor to apricot ginger cranberry sauce. It is often used in Asian cuisine and is known for its medicinal properties. Ginger contains gingerol, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is also used to aid digestion and relieve nausea. Fresh ginger root can be grated and added to the sauce, or ground ginger can be used instead.

Tip 4: Balance Flavors

When making apricot ginger cranberry sauce, it is important to balance the sweet, tart, and spicy flavors. The sauce should not be too sweet, too tart, or too spicy. Taste the sauce as you cook it and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If the sauce is too tart, add more apricots or sugar. If it is too sweet, add more cranberries or lemon juice. If it is too spicy, reduce the amount of ginger or add more fruit.

Tip 5: Cook Slowly and Stir Frequently

When making apricot ginger cranberry sauce, it is important to cook the sauce slowly and stir frequently. Cranberries can burst when heated too quickly, causing the sauce to splatter. Stirring the sauce frequently prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning. Cooking the sauce slowly allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, complex taste.

Tip 6: Add Spices and Herbs

In addition to ginger, other spices and herbs can be added to apricot ginger cranberry sauce recipes to enhance the flavor. Cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves are all spices that pair well with cranberries and apricots. Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage can be added to the sauce to add a savory note.

Tip 7: Make Ahead of Time

Apricot ginger cranberry sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a week. This makes it a convenient dish to bring to holiday dinners or potlucks. The sauce can be served cold or reheated before serving. To reheat the sauce, add a little water or orange juice to thin it out and prevent it from burning.

Tip 8: Use as a Condiment

Apricot ginger cranberry sauce can be used as a condiment for a variety of dishes, including turkey, chicken, pork, and ham. It can also be used as a topping for ice cream or as a filling for pies or tarts. The sauce can be served hot or cold, depending on personal preference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, apricot ginger cranberry sauce is a delicious and healthy way to add flavor to any dish. By following these valuable tips, you can make a sauce that is balanced in flavor and rich in taste. So next time you are looking for a condiment for your holiday meal, consider making apricot ginger cranberry sauce. Your taste buds will thank you!